Flu and You

Most experts think that flu viruses are spread by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. A person may also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own eyes, mouth or nose.

To prevent the flu you can:

• Take time to get a flu vaccine. This is the first and most important step in protecting against influenza.

• Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs by:

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, drink sufficient water, exercise and eat a healthy diet.

If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone. (Your fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.) Faculty members are aware that, when influenza is circulating on campus, students may miss classes. It is your responsibility to communicate directly with your professors. Notify them by e-mail, phone call or other means to let them know you are ill.

• If you become ill with influenza symptoms, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people, except to seek medical care if that is needed. Most people are able to recover at home without medical care. However, if you are concerned about your symptoms, contact CSB Health Services at (320) 363-5605. You can ask for advice from a nurse or make an appointment to be seen. If you make an appointment to be seen, you will be instructed to wear a mask when you enter the CSB Health Center. Please do so to protect the spread of germs to others.

• Some people have a greater risk of complications and should seek medical care. People with asthma, other lung conditions, heart, liver, blood or kidney diseases, diabetes, or a weakened immune system due to medications or diseases such as HIV, cancer are at greater risk. If you feel you are at greater risk, please seek medical attention.

If you experience any of the following warning signs, please go to the nearest hospital or emergency room.